In this raw and deeply personal conversation, Bear Rinehart of Needtobreathe sits down with Stephan Hogan to talk about songwriting, faith, trauma, creativity, and the future of music.
The interview comes as Needtobreathe prepares to release their 10th studio album, The Long Surrender, on March 27, 2026 via MCA. Produced by acclaimed producer Dave Cobb, the 12-track album marks a return to raw, personal songwriting from frontman Bear Rinehart. The project includes the single “Highlands” and explores themes of surrender, faith, identity, and personal growth.
In this conversation, Bear opens up about the experiences that shaped the writing behind The Long Surrender, including therapy, faith, family, and the inner voice that often tells artists they are not good enough. He also talks about the beauty of imperfection in music, the pressure artists face in the modern industry, and how real songs come from lived experiences rather than formulas.
This episode offers a rare look inside the mind of one of modern rock’s most thoughtful songwriters as Needtobreathe enters a new chapter of music.
Topics discussed include:
• Needtobreathe’s upcoming album The Long Surrender (2026)
• Writing songs for the new record and returning to personal storytelling
• Working with producer Dave Cobb
• The new single “Highlands”
• Bear Rinehart on faith, trauma, and personal transformation
• The creative process behind meaningful songwriting
• Why imperfection is essential in music
• The pressures of the modern music industry
• AI, creativity, and the future of art
• Balancing touring life with family and fatherhood
If you're a fan of Needtobreathe, Bear Rinehart, songwriting, or conversations about creativity and faith, this episode dives deep into the stories behind the music.
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Filmed in Nashville, TN
Produced: Stephan Hogan
Mavericks Media Co. Production
